As Above, So Below: Shared Healing with Trees

My favorite view in nature is from below a big tree. The view through the branches and leaves to see light and sky filtering through has always filled me with awe. I love the feel of tree bark, the smell of evergreens, and the sense of well-being that comes over me just being near trees. Take a walk with me through my neighborhood, and it is likely I'll have stopped suddenly in the middle of the road to look up at an old, gnarled tree or touch some leaves.

Much of the artwork I collect, and photos I take are of trees. Yggdrasil, the Tree of Life from Norse mythology is known as that which connects all things. The imagery and what it stands for speaks to me - "As above, so below. As within, so without. As the universe, so the soul." But this isn't just aesthetic appreciation or spiritual metaphor—it turns out my body knew something science is now confirming. The relationship between human health and tree health isn't one-directional. When we care for trees, we're caring for ourselves.

Studies show that time among trees lowers cortisol, reduces blood pressure, and boosts immune function. Trees filter our air, cool our neighborhoods, and provide the oxygen we breathe. But here's what's remarkable: this relationship works both ways. When we plant and nurture trees—especially in dense, biodiverse clusters—we strengthen both the ecosystem and our own wellbeing. We're not just passive recipients of nature's benefits; we're active participants in a reciprocal healing.

This is where the mini-forest concept becomes revolutionary. Mini forests (also called tiny forests, microforests) are small spaces, usually in urban areas, with densely planted native trees and shrubs. Unlike traditional tree planting that spaces saplings far apart, mini-forests methods include planting native species 3-10 times more densely than conventional forests, creating a thriving ecosystem in just a few years instead of decades. As small as a boulevard or single tennis court, these spaces provide homes to birds, small animals and insects. They offer a visual appeal as well as a place for community. Trees provide shade for paved areas and can help reduce the heat island effect of urban spaces. The root systems support water retention and filtration, limiting flood risk. Trees absorb carbon and release oxygen, offering climate solutions while supporting human health. Learn more about the concepts in this video from Hannah Lewis, author of The Mini-Forest Revolution.

For all of these reasons and more, many communities are moving toward planting these vital spaces. Have you considered establishing a tiny forest in your area - perhaps on school grounds, local churches, your workplace, or even city property? Look around as you move throughout your day and consider where you would like to see a mini forest. In addition to the broader benefits, joining with others to plant is a great way to meet people and get physical movement into your day. On your path towards Becoming EcoWell, consider approaching your city or local community groups about the idea and see where it goes. You'll see and feel the benefits for years, even decades, to come!

Sources:

1. Forest Bathing and Immune Function

Dr. Qing Li's research at Nippon Medical School in Japan demonstrated that forest bathing increases natural killer (NK) cell activity—white blood cells that fight viruses and cancer PubMed Central. One study found that a three-day, two-night forest trip boosted immune cell activity for more than a month afterward Harvard Health. The mechanism behind this involves phytoncides, natural oils that trees release to protect themselves from disease, which humans breathe in while among trees.

Citation: Li, Q. (2010). Effect of Forest Bathing Trips on Human Immune Function. Environmental Health and Preventative Medicine.

2. Urban Trees and Cardiovascular Health

A 2015 study in Toronto found lower incidences of cardiovascular disease in neighborhoods with higher tree density Yale Climate Connections. More broadly, a 2020 comprehensive review in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health examined 201 studies and found that exposure to urban trees is associated with multiple health benefits PubMed Central, including reduced stress hormones, lower blood pressure, improved mental health, and stronger immune systems.

Citation: Wolf, K.L., et al. (2020). Urban Trees and Human Health: A Scoping Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(12), 4371.